Hey guys, my car keeps coming up with drive system error intermittently and the amber engine light remains on at all time, I took it to the garage, they plugged it in and found that my air intake flaps are not sending any information to the car. The garage said that this job is a big job as they have to take the front bumper off and potentially remove the dash and said it could cost into the thousands to fix, is this correct or do use think the garage are taking me for a ride? 

Thanks 

Hello Michael,

I’ve edited out the inappropriate language bit.

Regards,

Gareth. 

You need a full VCDS scan first, then you can see the specific error code regards engine management light. This could be a wire break, which is an auto-electrician job. Removing the bumper, takes 30 minutes - so don't be freaked out by that. Dash out is a different ball-game and I personally wouldn't entrust with anyone other than a specialist (non main-dealer). Working clean, space in workshop, anti-marring tools, etc.

Get an independent auto electrician on the job, they will carry out pin out tests for modules and components, test wiring and carry out any programming required. If it turns out to be a mechanical failure they should be able to tell you this from the above tests 

Thanks guys so, I removed the glove box and inspected the recirculation flap and air intake, so when I press the buttons on the aircon the flap opens and closes. And when the engine isn't running but the car is powered by the battery, the aircon works but when I start the engine the aircon turns off and isn't able to be turned on. It's booked in for a full diagnostic test next week so hopefully will know better by then.

Appologises about the language in the previous post.

 

Thanks Michael 

Aircon can only work when engine is running as it’s a mechanical pump or high voltage pump if a hybrid or EV. Might be that without the engine running the heater controls let you select AC and the flaps respond as such but once the engine is started it detects a low pressure in the AC system and shuts it down to protect the pump. Diagnostic scan would show this fault. If the AC system definitely has enough gas as they do slowly lose it and still displays the fault it would point to the pressure sensor which is easy to replace